Originally Posted by
divecon2k4
, a whole new set of wheels isn't in my budget at the moment.
You don't a whole new set, just the rear wheel. I's not as expensive as you think if you shop around. Heck, I've given hubs and rims and wheels away. Maybe a friend has an extra 32 hub laying around? Then it's the rim and the build. Much better than wasting $62 here and there, now and later!
I've always used straight gauge 14 DT spokes. Never a problem.